Categories: DIY & Crafts; Literature & Arts

-619026788

Art with Words: Calligraphy

Bridging the worlds of visual art and the written world, calligraphy is one of my sometimes hobbies. Get your basic supplies, an instruction book and try it out for yourself!

Necessary Supplies

Writing Implements

Calligraphy pens come in a variety of styles, from simple markers to dip nibs and holders to full quill pens. Depending on your level of dedication and skill, the items you will want vary. Markers are the simplest, not requiring messy pots of ink or cleaning. I tend to prefer dip nibs, it gives a much more authentic experience and allows me to work with a multitude of line widths and colors.

Widget_brrrtizbfff6gxwwuwucdp
Widget_coyrcriodcjqjheink-czo

Ink

If you’re using a pen that requires liquid ink, always start out with a good black ink. Of the other colors generally available, I have the hardest time working with the metallics. The consistency tends to be a bit different than normal colors, and the sheen of gold or silver tends to scatter even after the ink has mostly dried.

Widget_dcttnrh7lhvyel0zdqysce

Buy Supplies in Denver

HR Meininger Art Supply

Meininger H R Co

499 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

Guiry's Paint Wallpaper & Art Supplies

Guiry's Paint Wallpaper & Art Supplies

2245 Market St, Denver, CO 80205

Guiry's Paint Wallpaper & Art Supplies

2468 S Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80222

Art Supply Stores in Denver

Books and Reference

Get a grasp on basic lettering techniques or begin a foray into advanced calligraphy and decoration.

The Illuminated Alphabet

by Patricia Seligman (Author), Timothy Noad (Illustrator)

Widget_btodvb4bvfr4zlafdh2nel

Calligraphic Lettering with Wide Pen and Brush

by Ralph Douglass

Widget_ajyh26lxhdhjk_nayhesk3
 

Modern Applications

In a world where appearance is everything, calligraphy is one way to make an object stand out. Disgustingly expensive wedding invitations, spray-painted graffiti on walls, even some tattoos rely on these basic artistic writing styles.

Widget_cnonfxv_lcpimz-y6qghpa
Widget_a-wsi4sfzody1kccziq2wi
Chez

Medieval Texts

Illuminated manuscripts were most commonly made of religious texts, incorporating the beauty of the word of God with the beauty of human art and writing. These were incredibly detailed, using precious gold leaf and expensive inks and parchments.

Widget_as396gs3xjcqof3dilvlcf

A corner from the Book of Hours

Widget_a_nrdonfthmo6fsgjaj5uv

The Magic Calligraphy

Not only calligraphy, upside-down calligraphy.

Brought to you by Guidespot.com Copyright 2008 - Local Matters Inc.

Suggested Guides

  • What Would Dante Do? Denver’s Most Sinful Destinations (Perfect for the DNC)
  • 7 Ways To Kill Time During Your Commute Into Boston
  • Denver's Ugliest Public Art
  • Go Medieval, Stay in the States
  • Slide into Yoga: A Beginner's Guide
  • Guidespot After Dark: The Ladies of Guidespot